HOT merit

Ordering a takeaway may no longer have to be such a guilty pleasure with the launch of the Healthier Options Takeaway. The HOT scheme is just one approach to help tackle the national obesity problem, giving people more options and showing that there can be a healthier alternative without compromising on taste.

We are working with and encouraging local food businesses to provide healthier food options on their menus and help customers manage their weight. The scheme isn't about stopping people from having a takeaway but promoting healthier options.

We are implementing a Healthier Options Takeaway (HOT) Merit scheme, where you can apply for a Merit award if you are a take away business that has a food hygiene rating of 3 or above. ‎

The HOT Merit aims to increase accessibility and awareness of healthier options in takeaway outlets.

Many takeaways, restaurants, cafes and coffee shops already offer healthier options for their customers and display information about this on their menus. Other food outlets may offer healthier options, without realising or promoting it. With making small changes to what is offered or how food is prepared, cooked or served, takeaways can offer more choice for their customers.

There are lots of simple steps businesses can make without compromising on taste, for example:

Offering to grill, bake, poach or steam food instead of frying it

Removing salt from tables and counters

Switching to wholegrain pasta, brown rice or wholegrain bread

Offering a vegetable side or salad as part of a meal option

Switching from double cream to single cream, yoghurt or half fat cream fraiche in recipes

Promoting water or low sugar drinks, or

Offering smaller portion options for adults

This merit recognises those takeaways that offer healthier options and implement small changes to their menus. By achieving the merit, your business will be seen to be committed to supporting local communities to lead healthier lives. Other benefits include:

Increasing customer choice

Increasing customer satisfaction and sales

Enhancing reputation of the business

Receiving a certificate and promotional material to display in premises

Recognition of achievement through Newark and Sherwood District Council website and social media